IAOG - FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

[ F.A.Q. ]

In order to assist you in some of the questions or concerns you might have about our fellowship, we have listed below some of the most common questions we receive. We invite you to contact us if you have specific questions that may not be answered here.

Q. What is your stand on divorce and remarriage?

A. We believe that divorce is a tragedy that has hit to many homes. The resulting emotions are devastating to everyone involved. However, we acknowledge that as much as we hate to see it, it will happen. With the exception of a person who holds credentials and intentionally commits an offence that results in a divorce, we see no reason for not credentialing those who have suffered through the same provided that they have sought sound, biblical counsel on their situation so as to prevent this from happening in the future. We suggest that any interested party request a copy of our positional paper on Marriage & Divorce.

Q. If a minister is dismissed by another organization, will you grant them credentials?

A. That depends on the nature of the offence and the attitude of the offender. If they have an unrepentant heart, then there can be no restoration until such time as they do. However, if they come to us acknowledging their failure and seeking restoration, we will certainly work with them. We do not have a set “program” that dictates a specific time of restorative ministry. We use the scriptural standard for such things and our effort is not to punish or be punitive in nature, but to practice forgiveness and restoration. Each case is different and is handled with love, mercy and grace - just as Jesus would do.

Q. Will I be required to support the fellowship financially?

A. YES. You are required to support the fellowship financially in order to maintain credentials. This is a biblical mandate, and if you are one who perhaps feels otherwise, then perhaps we are not for you.

When a person supports something financially, it is because they strongly believe in what they stand for and are about. They old adage of “where your money is…your heart will be too”, is very true. Those who belong to organizations that require very little to nothing in financial support, offer very little to nothing in return….and most likely are doing very little to nothing pertaining to the Great Commission.

We work within biblical guidelines and no one is ever refused membership or credentials based on their financial status or situation. We strongly believe however that when a person makes an investment into something that they care about, they are more likely to participate fully in its vision and mission.

We invite you to contact us for further discussion on this matter at any time.

Q. Do you credential Women?

A. Yes. we find no scriptural support for not credentialing women. They are afforded the same rights and privileges that men are in this fellowship, including the right to serve in leadership.

Q. Is there a specific educational requirement for holding credentials?

A. There is no set “academic requirement” for holding or applying for credentials. In other words, you do not have to hold any academic degrees in order to qualify for credentials. HOWEVER….those who obtain credentials with us must meet some specific “qualifying criteria” which has been established by the leadership, and is somewhat different for each level of “Credential” held.

We recognize and affirm that there are many ways that one might receive the necessary training for ministry, thus qualifying for credentials. Whether it is through self-study / examination, ministerial apprenticeship / mentoring or formal education, candidates for credentials must meet those criteria in order to be credentialed.

IAOG Fellowship * P.O. Box 851 * Martinsburg, WV 25402